The Civil Partnership Act 2004 came into force on 5 December 2005. This Act enables same-sex couples to obtain legal recognition of their relationship. Couples who form a civil partnership have a new legal status, that of ‘civil partner’. This section contains information on this Act, what changes this Act has brought about legally, and how to register your civil partnership. Below you will find a summary on what you will find in this section. If you want more information, click on the links in the left-hand side of the page.

Civil Partnership is a new legal relationship, which can be formed by two people of the same sex. It gives same sex couples the ability to obtain legal recognition for their relationship. Couples who form a Civil Partnership will have a new legal status – that of “civil partner”. Use this article to find more information on what a civil partnership is, how it differs from marriage, and what legal rights it gives you.

Additionally, there are changes in legal rights and responsibilities that Civil Partnerships have brought about. Important rights and responsibilities will flow from entering a civil partnership, helping same-sex couples to organise their lives together. Find out what these rights and responsibilities are.

It is a legal requirement to give notice of your intention to register a civil partnership and, once given, your notices are publicised by the registration authority for a period of fifteen days. Use this article to find out how to do this.

A civil partnership can be registered at a register office or at any venue that has been approved for the registration of civil partnerships. Approved premises include stately homes and other prestigious buildings, hotels and restaurants. Find out what you have to do to register a civil partnership, as well as what happens after registering your ceremony, such as obtaining a copy of your civil partnership certificate.